Syracuse, N.Y. – In a bid to combat the deadly elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is introducing a novel approach: yoga sessions with elephants. This initiative aims to raise funds for research into preventing the virus, which has tragically claimed the lives of young elephants at the zoo.
Commencing on August 4th, the zoo will host six weekend sessions, each priced at $30, where participants can engage in yoga against the backdrop of these majestic creatures. Demand is high, with several sessions already sold out. Interested individuals must secure their spots through the zoo’s website promptly.
While the experience won’t entail the close proximity of traditional animal yoga with smaller creatures like goats or puppies, attendees will practice yoga within view of the elephants. Andrew Brazill, Director of Marketing and Communications at Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, highlighted that the elephants themselves enjoy stretching exercises as part of their care routine, emphasizing the symbiotic nature of the event.
“We thought it would be a fun idea for our guests to engage in yoga while appreciating these amazing creatures,” Brazill remarked. “Who wouldn’t love combining exercise with such a unique wildlife experience?”
Funds raised from these sessions will contribute to ongoing research efforts aimed at preventing EEHV, a strain of herpes that affects both Asian and African elephants, and has been a leading cause of mortality among Asian elephants born in North America since 1980. The zoo is part of a collaborative network of institutions dedicated to studying the virus and its prevention.
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo has faced tragic losses from EEHV, including the deaths of elephants Batu at 5 years old, Ajay at 2 years old in 2020, and Preya at 3 years old in 2003.
Yoga sessions will begin promptly at 8:45 a.m. following check-in starting at 8:30 a.m. Attendees are advised to bring their own yoga mats and water bottles. A special highlight of the event includes an opportunity for participants to interact with elephant keepers, gaining insights into the care and conservation efforts.
The elephant yoga experience is part of the zoo’s broader Asian Elephant Extravaganza on August 17th. This day-long event will feature food, games, live music performances by South Asian artists, and educational demonstrations by the zoo’s eight-strong herd of elephants.
“We have a packed day of activities planned and invite everyone to join us in celebrating and learning more about these incredible animals,” Brazill added enthusiastically. “It’s a chance for the community to connect with wildlife in a meaningful way.”
For more information and to reserve a spot in the elephant yoga sessions, visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo’s official website.
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